Exercises and muscles targeted

Exercise	Muscles Targeted
Vertical Leg Press (standard stance)	Quadriceps (Rectus Femoris, Vastus Lateralis, Vastus Medialis, Vastus Intermedius, primary), Gluteus Maximus (primary), Hamstrings (secondary), Adductors (secondary), Gastrocnemius (stabiliser)
Vertical Leg Press - High Foot Placement	Gluteus Maximus (primary, increased hip extension demand with higher foot), Hamstrings (Biceps Femoris, Semimembranosus, secondary), Quadriceps (secondary), Adductor Magnus (secondary)
Vertical Leg Press - Low Foot Placement	Quadriceps (maximum knee extension demand and VMO emphasis, primary), Gluteus Maximus (reduced contribution), Gastrocnemius (secondary at deep knee flexion)
Vertical Leg Press - Wide Stance	Adductor Magnus (inner thigh, significantly increased with wide stance, primary), Gluteus Maximus (primary), Quadriceps (secondary), Gluteus Medius (stabiliser)
Vertical Leg Press - Pause at Bottom	Quadriceps (eliminates stretch reflex, maximum time under tension at deepest hip flexion), Gluteus Maximus, Hamstrings, Adductors (sustained stabiliser load at full depth)

The vertical leg press is a distinct training tool from the 45-degree leg press because the straight-up press direction means the full plate weight works against the legs with no angular reduction. The hips also reach a deeper flexion position at the bottom compared to an angled press, placing the quadriceps and gluteus maximus at a longer stretch under load. This combination of maximum load and deeper stretch makes the vertical leg press uniquely demanding for quad and glute development at loads that exceed what any other leg press angle can practically deliver.

Who this machine is built for

Serious Home Gym Builders
The DSH043 is the heaviest bilateral leg pressing tool available in the DSH series on a per-effective-load basis, because the vertical press direction applies the full plate weight without any angular reduction. For a serious home gym where maximising quad and glute stimulus per plate loaded is the priority, the vertical press covers the ground that 45-degree and hack squat alternatives cannot reach in terms of effective resistance at any given plate load.

Bodybuilders and Physique Athletes
The deep hip flexion position at the bottom of the vertical press places both the quadriceps and the gluteus maximus at their longest stretch under the full bilateral plate load, producing the lengthened-position loading stimulus that generates the strongest hypertrophy signal. The low foot placement option concentrates this entirely on the VMO and outer quad for sweep development, while the wide stance adds inner thigh and adductor mass. Rotating through foot positions and the four-angle footplate across a training cycle covers the full lower body development spectrum.

Powerlifters and Strength Athletes
Bilateral leg pressing at vertical-angle effective loads develops the deep-range quad and glute strength that carries over to competition squat depth and drive. The 661 lb bilateral capacity allows working loads that exceed what most 45-degree press setups can practically deliver, and the zero spinal compression of the vertical press means this volume can be accumulated without adding to the spinal fatigue load that high-frequency barbell squatting generates.

Commercial Gym Owners and Operators
A vertical leg press is a premium category machine that distinguishes a serious leg training area from one stocked only with 45-degree and hack squat machines. The DSH043's 95.1" vertical height makes it one of the tallest machines in the DSH series and a visual anchor point in a leg training section. Members who train legs seriously recognise the vertical press as the heaviest bilateral leg machine available and seek it out specifically.

University and College Athletic Departments
Deep-range bilateral knee extension and hip extension strength at maximum load is a core component of athletic strength programmes for jumping, sprinting, and change-of-direction sports. The vertical press allows this strength quality to be trained at loads that exceed other leg press formats, in a controlled machine environment with dual safety systems that make team training without constant spotting supervision practical.

How to setup and use

Setting Up the DSH043 Vertical Leg Press

Use the step-up assistance handle to mount the machine safely, then lie back on the seat with the head resting on the head cushion and the lower back against the seat cushion support frame.
Set the backrest to one of four positions using the adjusting lining plate to position the pelvis at the angle where the lower back feels supported and the hip flexion at the starting position is comfortable without overstressing the lumbar spine.
Place both feet on the four-angle adjustable footplate in your chosen stance width and height position, with the balls of the feet near the lower edge so the heels can stay planted through the full press.
Grip the extended side handles for torso stability throughout the set.
Engage the dual safety system before loading: confirm the bottom limiters are set to the two-position depth appropriate for your range of motion, and familiarise yourself with the side-mounted control handles for reracking.
Load with Dynasty Fitness Urethane Grip Plates across all barbell bar frames for balanced bilateral loading.

Performing the Exercise

From the starting position with feet on the footplate and knees drawn toward the chest at the bottom of the press, drive both legs upward by extending the knees and hips simultaneously until the legs are fully extended but not locked at the knee.
Keep the lower back in contact with the seat cushion throughout the press — the lower back lifting off the seat at the bottom indicates the range of motion is too deep for the current backrest and limiter settings.
Lower the footplate back toward the chest under control over at least two seconds, allowing the full eccentric stretch before the next press.
Pause at the bottom of the movement for one to two seconds to eliminate the stretch reflex and maximise time under tension for hypertrophy-focused sets.
After the final rep, engage the side-mounted safety handles to lock the slide frame before removing feet from the footplate.

Owner's Manual

Access the complete assembly guide, parts list, and maintenance schedule below.

Download Owners Manual

Shipping & Delivery

All Dynasty Fitness equipment ships free across the 48 contiguous US states via freight carrier. If the product description says preorder, we'll send you an estimated delivery date via email.

Estimated delivery: 7–14 business days from order confirmation. You will receive a tracking number and a delivery window confirmation call before your shipment arrives. Deliveries are curbside standard, white glove delivery to room of choice is available at checkout.

Returns: Free within 30 days of delivery. Items must be in original condition and packaging. Refunds processed within 5 business days of return receipt.

Questions? Contact our team at:
📧Email: info@thedynastyfitness.com
📞Call: +1 (213)-584-0858

Need a buying guide?

Looking for one to one support before making final decision?
Feel free to contact us. Our expert support team would love to assist you.

Need Installation Help?

We have partnered with another company to help provide installation around the country. Please use the link below to see the price per machine for installation
See Installation Rates

Payment & Security

Your payment information is processed securely. We do not store credit card details nor have access to your credit card information.

Save 10%

Vertical Leg Press DSH043

$2,599.00

$2,599.00 ~~$2,899.00~~ 10% off (Save$300.00 )

Commercial Grade
Pay With HFA/FSA

Free Shipping

The Dynasty Fitness DSH043 Vertical Leg Press is a plate-loaded lower body machine that trains the quadriceps, gluteus maximus, and adductors from a supine lying position where the user presses a footplate straight upward along a vertical linear rail. The vertical press angle removes all axial spinal compression from the movement, places the hips in deep flexion at the starting position for maximum quad and glute stretch, and allows heavier absolute bilateral loads than any angled leg press because the resistance is purely against gravity with no incline reduction. A four-angle adjustable non-slip footplate accommodates different dorsiflexion levels and stance preferences, a four-position adjustable backrest sets the correct pelvic and spine angle for each user's proportions, and a dual safety system with side-mounted control handles and two-position bottom limiters provides secure solo training at maximum loads. Built from PT60×120×2.5mm steel with a 661 lb bilateral capacity in matte black, the DSH043 is built for commercial gyms, elite training studios, and serious home gym setups where vertical plate-loaded leg pressing is a heavy lower body programming priority.

Plate-loaded vertical leg press at 661 lbs bilateral where the user presses straight up against gravity with zero spinal compression, allowing heavier absolute training loads than any angled alternative because no incline factor reduces the effective resistance
Four-angle adjustable non-slip footplate accommodates different ankle dorsiflexion ranges and stance widths so quad-dominant, glute-dominant, and adductor-focused pressing variations are all accessible from the same machine
Four-position adjustable backrest sets the pelvic and spinal angle for each user's body proportions, ensuring the hip flexion depth at the starting position produces the correct quad and glute stretch without overstressing the lower back
Dual safety system with side-mounted control handles and two-position bottom limiters provides two independent mechanisms for safe solo training at maximum bilateral plate loads

Limited time offer

Get 20% off when you order 4 or more pieces of equipment!

Exercises and muscles targeted

Exercise	Muscles Targeted
Vertical Leg Press (standard stance)	Quadriceps (Rectus Femoris, Vastus Lateralis, Vastus Medialis, Vastus Intermedius, primary), Gluteus Maximus (primary), Hamstrings (secondary), Adductors (secondary), Gastrocnemius (stabiliser)
Vertical Leg Press - High Foot Placement	Gluteus Maximus (primary, increased hip extension demand with higher foot), Hamstrings (Biceps Femoris, Semimembranosus, secondary), Quadriceps (secondary), Adductor Magnus (secondary)
Vertical Leg Press - Low Foot Placement	Quadriceps (maximum knee extension demand and VMO emphasis, primary), Gluteus Maximus (reduced contribution), Gastrocnemius (secondary at deep knee flexion)
Vertical Leg Press - Wide Stance	Adductor Magnus (inner thigh, significantly increased with wide stance, primary), Gluteus Maximus (primary), Quadriceps (secondary), Gluteus Medius (stabiliser)
Vertical Leg Press - Pause at Bottom	Quadriceps (eliminates stretch reflex, maximum time under tension at deepest hip flexion), Gluteus Maximus, Hamstrings, Adductors (sustained stabiliser load at full depth)

Who this machine is built for

How to setup and use

Setting Up the DSH043 Vertical Leg Press

Use the step-up assistance handle to mount the machine safely, then lie back on the seat with the head resting on the head cushion and the lower back against the seat cushion support frame.
Set the backrest to one of four positions using the adjusting lining plate to position the pelvis at the angle where the lower back feels supported and the hip flexion at the starting position is comfortable without overstressing the lumbar spine.
Place both feet on the four-angle adjustable footplate in your chosen stance width and height position, with the balls of the feet near the lower edge so the heels can stay planted through the full press.
Grip the extended side handles for torso stability throughout the set.
Engage the dual safety system before loading: confirm the bottom limiters are set to the two-position depth appropriate for your range of motion, and familiarise yourself with the side-mounted control handles for reracking.
Load with Dynasty Fitness Urethane Grip Plates across all barbell bar frames for balanced bilateral loading.

Performing the Exercise

From the starting position with feet on the footplate and knees drawn toward the chest at the bottom of the press, drive both legs upward by extending the knees and hips simultaneously until the legs are fully extended but not locked at the knee.
Keep the lower back in contact with the seat cushion throughout the press — the lower back lifting off the seat at the bottom indicates the range of motion is too deep for the current backrest and limiter settings.
Lower the footplate back toward the chest under control over at least two seconds, allowing the full eccentric stretch before the next press.
Pause at the bottom of the movement for one to two seconds to eliminate the stretch reflex and maximise time under tension for hypertrophy-focused sets.
After the final rep, engage the side-mounted safety handles to lock the slide frame before removing feet from the footplate.

Owner's Manual

Access the complete assembly guide, parts list, and maintenance schedule below.

Download Owners Manual

Shipping & Delivery

All Dynasty Fitness equipment ships free across the 48 contiguous US states via freight carrier. If the product description says preorder, we'll send you an estimated delivery date via email.

Returns: Free within 30 days of delivery. Items must be in original condition and packaging. Refunds processed within 5 business days of return receipt.

Questions? Contact our team at:
📧Email: info@thedynastyfitness.com
📞Call: +1 (213)-584-0858

Need a buying guide?

Looking for one to one support before making final decision?
Feel free to contact us. Our expert support team would love to assist you.

Need Installation Help?

We have partnered with another company to help provide installation around the country. Please use the link below to see the price per machine for installation
See Installation Rates

Payment & Security

Your payment information is processed securely. We do not store credit card details nor have access to your credit card information.

Vertical Leg Press DSH043

$2,599.00

$2,599.00 ~~$2,899.00~~ 10% off (Save$300.00 )

Key Features

Vertical Linear Rail System

Two φ30mm guide rods carry the slide frame through four φ47×φ30×68mm linear motion bearings in a purely vertical travel path. The vertical direction means the full plate load works against the legs at every point in the press range with no angular reduction. The large-diameter 68mm bearing length distributes the slide load across a wide contact surface, keeping travel smooth and consistent from the deepest position to full extension.

Four-Angle Adjustable Footplate

The non-slip footplate adjusts through four angles to match different ankle dorsiflexion capacities and preferred foot-to-knee alignments during the vertical press. A steeper angle reduces the ankle demand and suits users with limited dorsiflexion. A shallower angle allows greater forward knee travel for maximum quad depth loading. Foot height and width on the plate further adjusts which muscle group carries the primary pressing stimulus, covering the quad, glute, and adductor emphasis within the same machine.

Four-Position Adjustable Backrest

The back cushion adjustment frame sets the backrest to four positions to change the angle at which the pelvis sits relative to the vertical rail. Correct backrest angle determines the depth of hip flexion at the starting position, which is what controls how much glute and quad stretch occurs at the bottom. A more reclined backrest allows deeper hip flexion for greater stretch loading. A more upright position reduces the depth for users who need a more moderate starting range.

Dual Safety System

Two independent safety mechanisms protect every set. Side-mounted control handles with left and right turn limit frames lock the slide frame at any position by turning the handles, allowing the user to safely pause or end a set without the footplate descending. Two-position bottom limiters set the maximum depth of each press so the slide frame is caught before the hips flex beyond the safe range. Together these systems provide complete safety for solo training at maximum bilateral loads.

Extended Side Grips and Assistance Handle

Two pairs of side grips in 170mm and 205mm lengths provide torso anchoring options for users of different arm lengths during the vertical press, where upper body stability is critical for maintaining consistent pressing mechanics under heavy bilateral loads. A separate step-up assistance handle on the handle connection frame allows users to mount and dismount the reclined machine safely without needing to climb or jump up to the seat position.

Head Cushion and Anatomical Seat

A head cushion supports the cervical spine in a neutral position throughout the vertical press, which prevents neck strain from occurring during maximum-effort sets where the drive effort can create tension that travels up through the spine. The anatomical seat cushion provides firm pelvic support that maintains the correct lumbar position set by the backrest throughout the press without the seat deforming under the bilateral load.

Product Information
Product Name	Vertical Leg Press
Model	DSH043
Series	DSH Plate Loaded Series
Product Type	Plate-Loaded Vertical Leg Press Machine
Press Angle	Vertical — full plate load applied, zero angular reduction
Primary Function	Bilateral vertical leg press — quadriceps, glute, and adductor development at maximum effective load
Target Muscles	Quadriceps, Gluteus Maximus (primary), Hamstrings, Adductors (secondary)
Grade	Commercial
Colour	Matte Black
Dimensions and Weight
Length	56.5 in (143.5 cm)
Width	95.1 in (241.5 cm)
Height	75.8 in (192.5 cm)
Net Weight	441 lbs (200 kg)
Load Capacity
Maximum Load Capacity	661 lbs (300 kg) — 330 lbs (150 kg) per side
Loading System	Plate-loaded — Olympic plates, 6 barbell bar frames (2 primary and 4 additional)
Rail and Bearing System
Guide Rods	2 x φ30mm vertical guide rods
Linear Bearings	φ47×φ30×68mm x4 on slide frame
Adjustability and Safety
Footplate Angle Positions	4 positions — non-slip surface, accommodates dorsiflexion variation and stance preferences
Backrest Positions	4 positions — adjusting lining plate, sets pelvic and spinal angle for different body types
Bottom Limiters	2-position adjustable depth stop — limits maximum hip flexion depth
Safety Control Handles	Side-mounted left and right turn limit frames — locks slide frame at any position
Pads, Handles, and Frame
Head Cushion	Cervical spine support throughout vertical press
Side Grips	Extended grips x2 in 170mm and 205mm lengths for different arm proportions
Assistance Handle	Step-up handle on connection frame for safe machine entry and exit
Main Frame Tubing	PT60×120×2.5mm rectangular steel
Floor Feet	3 x rubber feet, 1 x φ95mm rubber foot, 1 x adjusting pad
Finish	Matte black powder coat
Indoor Use Only	Yes

Q: How is a vertical leg press different from a 45-degree leg press?
A: The vertical press pushes the footplate straight up against gravity. The full plate weight acts on the legs at every point in the range with no angular reduction. A 45-degree press reduces the effective load by the sine of the angle, which means a 45-degree press applies roughly 70 percent of the plate weight as effective resistance. The vertical press therefore delivers meaningfully heavier effective loading per plate than any angled alternative, which is why advanced athletes use it for maximum bilateral leg stimulus.

Q: How do I use the safety system correctly?
A: The two-position bottom limiters set the lowest point the slide frame can reach, preventing the legs from being driven into a hip flexion angle beyond what is safe for your mobility and backrest setting. Confirm the limiters are set to the correct depth before loading working weight. The side-mounted control handles lock the slide frame instantly by turning them inward, which is the rerack mechanism at the end of each set. Always engage the control handles after the final rep before removing feet from the footplate.

Q: What backrest position should I start with?
A: Start at the middle of the four available positions. This provides moderate hip flexion depth at the bottom of the press that suits most users across a range of body proportions. If the lower back lifts off the seat at the bottom of the press, move to a more upright backrest position to reduce the hip flexion depth. If you want a deeper starting stretch for greater quad and glute loading, move to a more reclined position and verify comfort through a few warm-up reps before adding working weight.

Q: How does foot placement change the muscle emphasis on a vertical press?
A: Low foot placement on the footplate allows greater forward knee travel at the bottom of the press, concentrating the effort on the quadriceps and VMO at maximum depth. High foot placement increases the hip extension component at the bottom and shifts more of the load toward the glutes and hamstrings. Wide stance increases adductor involvement for inner thigh development. Narrow stance concentrates load on the outer quad. The four-angle footplate further modifies these effects by changing the ankle angle, making the DSH043 one of the most versatile bilateral pressing tools for leg muscle emphasis variation.

Q: Does this machine need anchoring?
A: No. At 441 lbs net weight before plates are loaded, the DSH043 is anchored by its own mass during vertical pressing where all force is directed straight up through the frame rather than creating horizontal displacement. The five rubber contact points on the base prevent sliding on smooth surfaces. Distribute plate loading evenly across all barbell bar frames using Dynasty Fitness Urethane Grip Plates for balanced bilateral load through the vertical rail system.

Q: What Dynasty Fitness machines pair with the DSH043 for a complete leg pressing area?
A: The DSH043 covers bilateral vertical pressing at maximum effective load. Pair it with the 45 Degree Linear Leg Press DSH019 for the most widely used commercial leg press angle, and the Hack Squat DSH036 for the upright standing hack squat arc that trains the same muscles through a different movement pattern. The Pendulum Squat DSH033 adds a pendulum arc squat variation alongside the press alternatives. For isolated knee and hip work after heavy pressing volume, the Leg Extension Prone Leg Curl DSA031 covers dedicated quad and hamstring isolation to complete the lower body training area.

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Every machine that leaves Dynasty Fitness carries the same promise: it is built to the commercial standard that professional training environments demand, priced so that standard is no longer exclusive to them, and backed by the support and warranty coverage that a long-term training investment deserves.

We are committed to equipment that stands the test of time — and to making sure the people who train the hardest have access to the tools that match their effort.